Devotion for Good Friday

“But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.”

Isaiah 52:5

Obedience . . .

To read the account of Jesus’ crucifixion, it becomes painfully clear that our understanding of obedience and Jesus’ understanding of obedience aren’t really in the same ballpark. To be truthful, they aren’t even in the same solar system. Our earthly understanding is certainly well intentioned, but there are “catches” that often go unspoken, but we know they are there. Putting ourselves in harm’s way is one of those catches. Conversely, Jesus’ understanding of obedience is laser-focused. There are no catches, no stipulations, no “as long as …” And putting himself in harm’s way is not only accepted, but Jesus demands it. Jesus said, “For this I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth.” For Jesus, it is crystal clear. The scriptures provide the blueprint, the Father reinforces His Divine plan, and Jesus’ task is to fulfill those expectations. Whatever the cost. We dabble in obedience, but we won’t take it too far. We listen for God’s voice, but we’ll only act on that voice if it fits into the neat little box we have constructed for ourselves. But, true obedience does not recognize boxes or boundaries. True obedience is extravagant. May we all find the strength to be extravagant.

Prayer Trust and obey, for there’s no other way to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey. Amen